According to the Emirates News Agency WAM His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah received several graduates who completed a joint PhD in molecular medicine and translational research at his office in the university on Thursday. The Deputy Ruler welcomed the group and commended them for their dedication and academic accomplishments in the rigorous dual-degree programme. The reception highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen research capabilities through cross-border educational partnerships.
Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed emphasised that such international partnerships enhance the university’s research and academic standing while giving PhD students access to world-class research environments. He stressed the importance of graduates continuing their academic and research efforts in ways that serve their communities and promote scientific development and progress. The Deputy Ruler wished the graduates continued success in their academic and professional careers.
The joint PhD programme launched in 2017 according to university records has produced a total of 20 graduates to date including the current cohort a figure that reflects sustained growth in collaborative doctoral training. Students pursue their research under a co-supervision model with principal investigators from both the University of Sharjah and the University of Lübeck while dividing their time between the two campuses. They also take part in regular joint online seminars discussions and progress meetings to support project advancement and skill development.
A ceremony in Lübeck in July 2026 marked the graduation of four participants from the programme Nawal Al Kutbi Rania Al Hakim Lina Sachnoon and Salam Dek Al Bab who earned joint degrees after fulfilling requirements that include extended research periods at the German institution. University of Lübeck statistics for 2025 place its medicine doctorate completions at 136 that year illustrating the German partner’s established strength in medical and translational fields. The four-year curriculum serves as a model for academic and research cooperation between the two universities.
The graduates expressed gratitude to Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed for his continued support and to the University of Sharjah for its diverse academic and research programmes that have expanded their scientific and practical capabilities. They praised scholarship programmes and international partnerships for enabling study and research at prestigious institutions along with facilities that enrich the overseas study experience. Such opportunities the graduates added have broadened their horizons and prepared them for future contributions.
EduRank data ranks the University of Sharjah fourth among UAE institutions with more than 21 000 scientific papers published and nearly 395 000 citations received across fields including medicine and biology. This output aligns with the joint programme’s aim to advance biomedical research and knowledge exchange in the region. The partnership forms part of wider UAE initiatives to develop a knowledge-based economy via strategic links with leading international universities.
